North East River vs. Lums Pond: Which is the Better Paddle Experience?
If you’re looking to get out on the water in the Mid-Atlantic, two talked-about spots are Lums Pond State Park in Delaware and the North East River in Maryland. While both offer beautiful scenery and paddling opportunities, they serve up very different experiences.
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which is best for your next outdoor adventure—and why more paddlers are choosing Bay Venture Outfitters on the North East River.
🛶 Water Type & Adventure Level
Lums Pond
🌊 Freshwater pond, calm and small in size
🛶 Great for quick paddles or trying out gear
⛵ Feels like paddling a large lake—limited exploration options
North East River (Bay Venture Outfitters)
🌊 Tidal Chesapeake Bay tributary with calm, wide-open water
🧭 Endless creeks, coves, and natural inlets to explore
🌅 More of a dynamic, scenic journey than a paddle-in-circles
🌿 Wildlife & Natural Beauty
Lums Pond
🦢 Surrounded by forest with occasional bird sightings
🚶♀️ More focused on hiking, camping, and picnicking
🐟 Limited aquatic wildlife visibility while paddling
North East River
🦅 Spot bald eagles, herons, ospreys, turtles, and beavers
🌾 Paddle through marshes and natural creeks
📸 Excellent for nature photography, wildlife viewing, and birding
👨👩👧👦 Family Experience
Lums Pond
✅ Easy for young kids, but limited variety
⛔ Rentals may not include extra gear or route recommendations
🍽️ No walkable town or post-paddle food options nearby
Bay Venture Outfitters – North East River
✅ Tandem kayaks, youth gear, dry bags, and family maps included
🎒 Great beginner experience with exploration built in
🏙️ Walk to restaurants and ice cream shops after your paddle
🚗 Location & Access
Lums Pond State Park
📍 Located near Bear, DE
💵 Park entrance fee required
🚗 Parking can fill up quickly on weekends
Bay Venture Outfitters
📍 104 W. Church Point Road, North East, MD
🚗 Free onsite parking
🛶 Launch directly from the shore—no hauling or portaging
The Verdict: Choose the North East River for a True Adventure
While Lums Pond is great for a quick paddle or first-time try, the North East River offers a richer, more scenic, and flexible paddling experience. With wildlife, natural creeks, beginner-friendly water, and a charming downtown nearby, Bay Venture Outfitters is the perfect launch point for your next family adventure or solo escape.
Book Your Paddle Now
📅 Reserve your adventure online now »
📞 Or call 877-523-9555 for group bookings or special requests
🛟 Pro Tip: Don’t forget to ask for our wildlife checklist and paddle trail map—it’s included free with every rental!